HP Latex and Stitch S1000: How to add an IPS host name in Linux for JDF/JMF configuration?

In this article, we will guide you through the process of adding an IPS hostname from a Windows environment into the hosts file on a Linux system. This is a crucial step for ensuring that your HP printer using JDF/JMF can communicate effectively with your CalderaRIP.

Introduction

JDF (Job Definition Format) is an XML format used to define print jobs, while JMF (Job Messaging Format) is the messaging protocol that facilitates the communication of JDF data. CalderaRIP communicates with certain HP Latex printers using these formats by exchanging job-related information and status updates.

However, when working in different environments, such as Windows and Linux, it is crucial to properly configure the hosts file to establish a connection. This ensures that CalderaRIP can accurately resolve the printer's hostname to its IP address, before setting up effective JDF/JMF connections

Add an IPS Hostname in the Hosts File

1. Obtain the Workstation Hostname. First, ensure you have the hostname of the Windows workstation where the IPS (Intelligent Print Server) controller is running. You can find the hostname using one of the following methods:
   Method 1Method 2Method 3Method 4

   Using Command Prompt.

   • Open the Command Prompt by pressing Windows + R, typing cmd, and hitting Enter:
     
     Source: LifeWire.com
   • In the Command Prompt window, type the hostname command and press Enter:
     
     Source: LifeWire.com
   • The hostname will be displayed in the Command Prompt window:
     
     Source: LifeWire.com

   Using System Properties.

   • Right-click on the "This PC" or "Computer" icon on the desktop or in File Explorer.
   • Select "Properties" from the context menu.
   • In the System window, look for the "Computer name" section. The hostname will be listed there.

   Using Settings.

   • Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
   • Navigate to "System" and then select "About."
   • Under the "Device specifications" section, you will find the "Device name," which is the hostname of the workstation:
     
     Source: LifeWire.com

   Using Network Settings

   • Open the Control Panel and go to "Network and Internet."
   • Click on "Network and Sharing Center."
   • Click on the name of your network connection (e.g., Ethernet or Wi-Fi).
   • In the connection status window, click on "Details." The hostname may be listed as "Host Name" or "Computer Name."
2. Open the Terminal. Access your Linux system and open the Terminal. You can usually find it in your applications menu or by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.
3. Edit the Hosts File:
   • In the terminal, type the following command to open the hosts file in a text editor (you may need superuser privileges):
     sudo nano /etc/hosts

       Info

     In this example, we use GNU nano, but you can use any text editor of your choice. For instance, Gedit is a graphical editor that may be easier to use for inexperienced users.

   • Enter your password when prompted.
4. Add the IPS Hostname:
   • Scroll to the bottom of the first list and add a new line in the following format:
     [IP Address]    [IPS Hostname]
   • For example: 
     
5. Save the Changes. After adding the new entry, save the changes. In Nano, you can do this by pressing Ctrl + O, then hitting Enter to confirm. Exit the editor by pressing Ctrl + X.
6. Verify the Changes:
   • To ensure that the hostname has been added correctly, you can use the following command:
     cat /etc/hosts
   • Check that your new entry appears in the list.
7. Test the Connection:
   • Finally, test the connection to the printer using the hostname you just added. You can do this by pinging the hostname:
     ping hplatex-ips (as shown in the previous example)
   • If the setup is correct, you should see replies from the printer's IP address.

If you encounter any issues, please refer to these other articles:

• Enabling the JDF/JMF for displaying printer status and other info
• Common troubleshooting for JDF/JMF Printers